Optics

The Gazette received a call last week from a local Federal agency. It was to inform us that its small bill could not be paid until the government shutdown ended. The office was closed, the heat turned down and few had access to the building. The answering machine warned callers that messages left would not be answered until the situation changed.

How many thousands or millions of times this type of message was relayed across America is unknown.

Also unknown is the hardship and fear the shutdown has caused workers and families. The toll is mounting and may be greatest among breadwinners unable to meet their responsibilities.

The impact here is less than in many parts of the nation.

Still, food programs and rental assistance are threatened. Reportedly, Fortune 500 companies are cutting back work on government projects. The TSA and Coast Guard have also been cut back and many are working without pay. The FBI is concerned about fulfilling its roles. Air traffic controllers are working unpaid.

Ironically, security services at the border have been adversely affected.

No part of the country has escaped the growing effects of the shutdown.

One word that has surfaced in the analysis and commentary about the shutdown is “optics.”

Both political parties want to look sincere and be perceived as concerned about every citizen’s well being. This to avoid damaging political repercussions, if nothing else.

Sadly, optics does not pay bills, get important Federal employees back to work or even ease the pain and distress so many innocent Americans are feeling.

As of this writing, two Congressional votes are scheduled for today–one drafted by Republicans, one drafted by Democrats.

Cynically, they are given no chance of passing, but are only to make it appear the parties are trying to end the stalemate.

At this point, it may be all about optics, but the only important optics would be a fully functioning Federal government.

A fully functioning, efficient and non-partisan Federal government is why our leaders are in office.

Despite their efforts, right now the optics do not favor either party or any of the principle players.